A Baton Rouge hidden gem (literally). The Tunnel is celebrating its first anniversary by giving back to its incredible guests. Between Bourbon nights and giveaways, it’s a celebration Baton Rouge won’t forget. Located inside the Hilton Capital Center, buried beneath a few surprising secret entrances, the speakeasy packs a rich history dating back to the Prohibition era. And don’t be fooled— there is an actual tunnel, and it played a significant role in the life of Baton Rouge’s Huey P. Long.

An Unexpected History

Originally in the ’20s, the tunnel (before it was The Tunnel) connected two hotels— the King Hotel and the Heidelberg Hotel. This allowed the full-service Heidelberg to give a similar experience at the King Hotel. This included room service, valet, and laundry services. 

It is later said that the tunnel connecting the two hotels became known as “Peacock Alley” covered in beautiful mosaic tiles while being used frequently by guests and clients of the hotel. Huey P. Long, the 40th governor of Louisiana, also known as ‘The Kingfish’, utilized the tunnel, whether for personal pleasure or business. He stayed in the Heidelberg during his career conducting business from his suite. Often the media attention he would receive needed a quick escape from resulting in his use of the tunnel. 

Rumor has it that there may have also been a mistress at the other end of the tunnel, but nothing is known for certain. 

The Tunnel Today-- Baton Rouge's Speakeasy

Today, The Tunnel is used for different purposes. Having opened in Baton Rouge one year ago, the speakeasy under BR’s beautiful downtown Hilton hotel has gained quite a following. With exclusive reservation-only nights and a secret way to get inside, it is a dream night-out destination. 

They house a very delicious cocktail menu as well. Their cocktail menu titled ‘Giggle Water’ which pays tribute to its speakeasy roots as this was a slang term for alcohol during the Prohibition era, includes all specialty cocktails priced at $18. A few of our favorites include Classic Old Fashioned with Woodford Reserve, bitters, an orange peel, and cherries, the Paper Plane with Bourbon, Aperol, and lemon juice, and the Gin Rickey which you can get with Gin or Bourbon, lime juice, and carbonated water. 

I can’t forget to include their Nosh Boards— a delicious twist on a charcuterie board with Louisiana flair. For $35 you pick 3 of the offerings to curate your night out snack. 

Triple Mushroom Sandwich Bites (One of our favorites!)
Cheese and Crackers
Shrimp Cocktail (Also delicioussss!)
Caprese Skewers
Devils on Horseback (Bacon-wrapped dates with honey goat cheese)
Louisiana Charcuterie (local alligator sausage, cousin, and Tasso, with spicy creole mustard (I can't stress enough how delicious this one is, too!)

These small bites make the perfect addition to your 'Giggle Water' cocktails.

The Hilton Capital Center in Downtown Baton Rouge

The Hilton Capital Center houses The Tunnel and a delicious restaurant called Kingfish Grill named after Huey P. Long's nickname. Its incredible location with a river view for some of its guests makes for a great staycation spot or an extended vacation spot. Located at 201 Lafayette St. in Downtown Baton Rouge, you'll be in the heart of many happenings.

Are you looking to book your next stay? Click here for %15 off posted room rates at Hilton Baton Rouge Capital Center.

The Tunnel is located behind a secret entrance. Do you want to know where? Make a reservation here. About 15 minutes before, you’ll receive a text with your clue. Follow the clue to find the entrance into one of Baton Rouge’s sleekest venues. Grab a few drinks at the Hilton bar while you wait!

Check out their Instagram right now for a giveaway that includes a night at the Hilton Capital Center, a complimentary meal at Kingfish Grill, and free cocktails and light bites at The Tunnel. All you have to do is follow @thetunnelbr, @hiltoncapitalcenter, and @the121br on Instagram, like their giveaway reel, and tag your plus one in the comments! We've linked the giveaway post here. Entries close on August 23rd, and they will announce a winner on August 26th.

Are you looking to explore more hidden gems around Baton Rouge? Click here to see some of our highlights.

Featured Image by The Tunnel